A Virtual field trip is a simulated, real-time field trip. Some virtual field trips are as simple as navigating through a bunch of different web sites. Some take you through still shots or allow you to pan 360 degrees around a historical site. The best situation (in my opinion, K. Casselman) would be one where video conferencing is utilized. In the case of interactive video conferencing, students interact, live, with a remotely located field trip host.
How can you use it?
Teachers can use already created trips or they can spend some time creating one for their students.
In searching through the sites listed as references, there is not a subject or grade level that cannot use some type of virtual field trip.
Many of these are in the form of a WebQuest, but this is still under the umbrella of a Virtual Field Trip.
Why would you use it?
Students get to experience something other than their day to day routine.
If students are absent on the day of the trip, they can always return a day later!
PRO: Costs very little when compared to packing grade levels of students on buses to travel to a remote location.
PRO: Will allow districts where traditional field trips are cost prohibitive to provide the same or similar educational experience to their students.
PRO: Less liability for the school with what could happen to children on a trip outside of school.
PRO: Allows for preview and review of a real life trip.
CON: Students don't get the change of scenery from the classroom.
CON: If you have technical difficulties on either end, you could have many disappointed students. This is true with all technology, but I think this more than others.
CON: Both your school and the field trip location need to possess the proper equipment. This must be researched ahead of time.
CON: Lack the ability to employ all of your senses.
Virtual Field Trips
What is it?
How can you use it?
Why would you use it?
References